Doing Life Together

As we enter this Christmas week, many of us may not feel as “merry” as the season’s carols suggest. Yet, in the story of Mary, we find a model of how to experience true joy and peace amidst uncertainty. Can you imagine what a young girl must have felt when an angel appeared to her…

If someone you care about isn’t OK, how do you approach the topic of mental health? A friend recently asked me this very question. She’s noticed that a close friend of hers has been acting differently—eating poorly, feeling down most of the time, and losing interest in activities they once enjoyed. She’s concerned that he…

Remember the game Candyland? It’s one of those classic childhood board games where you travel along a colorful path to the ultimate prize: the big candy castle. But along the way, there are these black dots—places where you can get stuck for what feels like an eternity until you draw the right color card to…

The holiday season is often portrayed as the “most wonderful time of the year,” but for many, it’s a time of stress, anxiety, and pressure. A woman walks into the mall to start her Christmas shopping when suddenly, a wave of dread washes over her. Her hands sweat, her heart races, and she feels like…

“I can’t believe he just broke up with me!” Anna exclaims as she heads for the ice cream, ready to indulge in stress eating. If this scenario sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Stress eating, or turning to comfort foods when we’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed, is a common reaction. And during the holidays, with an abundance…

Give thanks with a grateful heart!

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, but for Tim, the stress has already begun. One family member is boycotting the dinner due to political differences, while others are squabbling over logistics and what to bring. Instead of a joyful occasion to give thanks, the holiday feels like a powder keg ready to explode. Old grievances…

Lying may seem like a quick fix to avoid conflict or protect someone’s feelings, but its long-term effects on relationships, personal integrity, and emotional well-being can be far-reaching. Whether it’s a small white lie or a more significant deception, the consequences of dishonesty often extend beyond the immediate situation, causing harm to both the liar…

Loneliness is one of the most profound challenges of our modern society. While it may seem like an individual problem, loneliness is increasingly being recognized as a widespread issue with deep societal roots. From the erosion of community bonds to the decline of shared cultural practices, many factors contribute to the rising sense of isolation…

You’ve probably heard someone say, “He’s so controlling,” or “She’s always pushing me to do things her way.” Maybe you’ve even found yourself thinking this about someone in your own life. If you feel like your relationship is off-balance and you’re constantly being controlled or manipulated, it’s important to understand what that looks like so…

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